Abducted Traditional Ruler Rescued In Nasarawa

The Nasarawa State Police Command has confirmed the safe rescue of Emmanuel Omanji, the traditional ruler of Dari in Kokona Local Government Area, who was kidnapped from his palace on May 28, 2025.

Police spokesperson SP Ramhan Nansel, in a statement issued Tuesday in Lafia, revealed that the monarch was found unharmed during a late-night operation on Monday, June 2.

“We are pleased to report that the Sangarin Dari, kidnapped on May 28, has been rescued without injury,” Nansel said.

The police disclosed that the rescue mission took place around 11:00 p.m. in the Panwasa Mountains near Mada Station, following sustained efforts by the command’s Search and Rescue Team.

The traditional ruler was promptly taken to a hospital for medical assessment and has since been reunited with his family.

Although the abductors are still at large, police officials stated that efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest them.

On behalf of the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Shetima Jauro-Mohammed, the police extended gratitude to the public for their timely support and information, which played a vital role in the operation.

The Commissioner also commended the cooperation of other security agencies and local vigilante groups, describing their contribution as instrumental to the success of the mission.